Senior Histology Laboratory Technician - Abingdon, United Kingdom - Immunocore
Description
Immunocore (NASDAQ: IMCR) is a pioneering, commercial-stage T cell receptor biotechnology company whose purpose is to develop and commercialize a new generation of transformative medicines which address unmet patient needs in oncology, infectious diseases and autoimmune disease. Our leaders in R&D are internationally recognised as some of the biotech industry's most successful drug developers. We are creating not just an environment where great minds can interact but an innovation powerhouse answering the big questions.
Focused on delivering first-in-class biological therapies to patients, we have developed a highly innovative soluble TCR platform. Our ImmTAX molecules underpin a new generation of precision engineered drugs that harness the immune system to treat a broad spectrum of diseases with high unmet medical need, including oncology, infectious diseases and autoimmune diseases.
We strive to create a diverse and inclusive workplace, while seeking talented individuals to work with us across the many functions that will allow us to deliver new medicines to transform the lives of patients. You will work with outstanding people who together pioneer the research, development and commercialization of bi-specific TCR therapies. We aim to create an environment where individual contributions and initiatives can be maximized, while fostering a culture of collaboration, based on respect and integrity. We want each individual employee to own their career, as part of high-performing teams, and in the context of on-the-job and formal continuous development and training, as well as constructive feedback. We always strive to identify ways to improve what we do and how we do it, by asking questions, voicing opinions, exploring various approaches and staying connected with healthcare professionals, patients, academia and other key partners.
MAIN PURPOSE OF JOB
To conduct histology/IHC laboratory routine procedures, with supervision and guidance from colleagues and managers in order to support the company pipeline, process, or technology capabilities. Support the team in maintaining HTA and GCP regulatory compliance with sample management, archive and audits. Responsible for the day-to-day maintenance of laboratory stocks (such as reagents, consumables etc.) and equipment. Liaising with suppliers and technical support. This is a matrix position with Target Validation and Identification.
SCIENTIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES
Experiments: Conducting laboratory routine procedures, observing and reporting results, with guidance from line manager, a mentor or colleagues.
* Priorities: working to agreed experimental priorities and deadlines; raising issues or concerns with managers or colleagues so that these can be addressed.
* Laboratory records: Maintaining accurate records of all work by completing laboratory notebooks following Company procedures. Ensuring that all data/records are up to date in relevant databases, on time and recorded to the correct standard, checking with a mentor or colleagues if unsure.
* Laboratory equipment: Attending training on the use and maintenance of technical instruments, ensuring that laboratory equipment is operated in accordance with safety and risk guidelines. Acting promptly to report any faults or problems to the relevant member of staff; coordinating repairs and maintenance with suppliers' technical support and facilities.
* Health & Safety: compliance with all H&S requirements, attending appropriate training programmes.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES - ROLE SPECIFIC
Performing routine laboratory activities following established protocols
* Receiving, dissecting, processing, sectioning clinical trial and non-clinical (HTA-relevant) human tissue samples for downstream molecular biology, histology/IHC or other functional applications. Archive and record sample progeny and stock.
* Perform histology stains (such as H&E) and basic IHC for tissue quality control
* Oversee reagent stock and preparation for histology/IHC/IF activities
* Support the team in maintaining HTA and GCP regulatory compliance with sample management, archive and audits, as required
* Ensuring laboratory equipment is maintained in accordance with manufacturers' instructions, and as per HTA and /or GCP regulations as relevant. Oversee equipment servicing and notifying the Facilities team and Scientists immediately of any faults or problems.
OTHER
Commitment to growing and learning labs skills to better support the work of Scientists and own development
* May also act as a mentor to other colleagues, especially new hires in specific techniques
EXPERIENCE AND KNOWLEDGE
Essential
Background in histology and immunohistochemistry
* Operated in a bench-based biology laboratory environment
* Experience in human tissue sample preparation (frozen and FFPE)
* Experience with human tissue sectioning with microtome and cryostat
* Shown a commitment to ensuring laboratory equipment is maintained and operated in a safe manner
* Actively contributed in a diverse team environment to support scientific activities
* Proven ability to follow detailed protocols, record results and information in a concise, accurate and timely way as part of studies or in a work environment
* Shown willingness to learn new techniques and adopt new practices
* Excellent communication and organisational skills
* Must have good attention to detail
* Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office package such as Excel, Word, and Outlook.
Desirable
Worked in a diverse team environment.
* Experience as a technician in an immuno-pathology laboratory.
* Knowledge of working in a clean, controlled environment
* Experience with HTA and/or GCP-regulated environment
* Experience in some of the following techniques:
o Human tissue dissection, and/or processing for downstream applications (such as genomics, histology, Flow cytometry or functional assays)
o Immunohistology: H&E staining and Immuno-histochemistry (IHC),
o Use of autostainers
o Use of microscope and Digital image acquisition
EDUCATION & QUALIFICATIONS
Minimum of GCSE or equivalent in molecular biology, immunology, cellular biology, or related discipline (E)